An Introduction To The Zone Diet

The word "zone" as used by Dr. Sears comes from the training and performance arena; athletes use the word in the context of learning to find a way to perform their best by proper training and goal setting. The Zone, with reference to the diet, has to do with finding a way to keep your insulin levels and hormones in the correct range by eating the right balance of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. The Zone Diet recommends getting 30% of your calories from fat, 30% from proteins and 40% from carbohydrates.

Food Choices

The Zone Diet Plan requires you to make careful food choices and keep your macronutrient intake for each meal at 40/30/30. Sears recommends focusing your 40% carbohydrate intake on foods from the vegetables, whole grains and fruit groups instead of relying on refined grains or sugar. A person following the diet would eat a lean protein at every meal and snack. Foods recommended include egg white omelets, reduced-calorie dairy, fish and chicken. Recommended choices to keep your fat intake at exactly 30% to include peanut butter, avocado, canola oil, olive oil, seeds and fatty fruits such as avocados.

About The Author

Terry FerrariTerry Ferrari is a trainer at CrossFit La Verne, in Southern California. She has been married for 30 years and is a mother of 3 and grandmother of 5. She is an avid CrossFitter and has competed in the CrossFit Games.